TCD MS 10515 folio 84 recto
[May 10th 1916]
when anyone approached their nest they became very excited at the appearance of danger. The used to race over the sand or circle through the air, uttering piping anxious cries – Like other of the plover tribe they sham wounded in the hope of enticing the intruder away from their nest. I was amused at the way this little bird would first come circling round overhead to attract my notice with its plaintive wail. The flitting to the ground it would scuttle away with its tail expanded and allow its dropping wings to flutter helplessly in the breeze. Occasionally, as if to make deception more perfect, it would sink down in the sand with outstretched wings, simulating a bird overcome with exhaustion. But its cunning was apparent. From its cloak of deceit it peered out with watchful eye. As it